Couples intending to contract an ordinance marriage have been urged to fully understand the legal procedures and implications of the union before taking that important step.

Speaking during a public engagement on Ho FM's Adanu Morning Show with Togbe Ahorgo I, Andrews Dodzi Adugu, Senior State Attorney and Secretary of the Ghana Bar Association's Volta and Oti Branch, said ordinance marriage is a legally recognised form of marriage in Ghana and carries rights and responsibilities that should not be taken lightly.

According to him, many marital disputes arise because couples fail to familiarise themselves with the legal framework governing ordinance marriage before getting married.

He explained that ordinance marriages may be contracted at Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies, as well as other authorised marriage registries, provided the legal requirements are met.

Mr Adugu cautioned couples against placing undue importance on marriage certificates, stressing that the certificate is merely documentary evidence that a valid marriage has been contracted under the law.

He also clarified a common misconception about wedding rings, noting that the law does not require couples to exchange rings for an ordinance marriage to be valid.

"There is no legal requirement for a ring in an ordinance marriage. The ring is simply a symbol to indicate that a person is married and does not determine the validity of the marriage."

Touching on Ghana's legal framework, the Senior State Attorney said the 1992 Constitution recognises marriage and protects the institution as the foundation of the family, while guaranteeing equal rights for spouses.

He encouraged prospective couples to familiarise themselves with the constitutional and statutory provisions governing marriage to help avoid future legal and family disputes.

Mr Adugu urged the public to seek legal advice where necessary and to ensure they understand the procedures, rights and responsibilities associated with ordinance marriage before entering into it.

He made the remarks during a public engagement aimed at educating people on the legal aspects of marriage and promoting informed decision-making among couples.